Location: Varanasi
Top Things to do in Varanasi
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Things to do in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The Best Sacred & Religious Sites
The north Indian city of Varanasi, or Benares, is regarded as sacred by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Situated in the fertile Ganga valley and on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who come to bathe in the holy river. Known as the City of Temples and a beacon of culture, Varanasi has produced many renowned writers. It’s also a center of silk weaving, so practice haggling at the chaotic bazaar for some beautiful souvenirs. Rickshaws are the best way to get about.
Restaurants in Varanasi
1. Vishalakshi Temple
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 50 reviews
Reviewed By cp_0010 - Manama, Bahrain
Visited this temple in the morning on the 2nd day of our Varanasi trip. Vishalakshi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Vishalakshi, a form of goddess Parvati at Mir Ghat on the banks of the Ganges at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, It is known as a Shakti Pitha where the earrings of the Sati is said to have fallen therefore it is one of the most sacred temples dedicated to the Hindu Divine Mother. The temple is situated nearby the Manikarnika ghat famous for creamations. It was good that we took help of a local guide so that we could cover many temples. The temple is open from 5.00 am to 9.45 pm except afternoon time. We had a very good darshan and offered puja. It is few minutes walking distance from Kashi Vishwanath temple. Vishalakshi Temple is known for the festival of KajaliTij, held on the third day during waning fortnight in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August).
2. Sri Bindu Madhava Perumal Temple
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By Tejfgjiityugy
one of the beautiful temple of lord vishnu,lt is panchmadhava temple of india,you can go here in a boat and need climb few step,here atmosphere is very lovely
3. Birthplace of Sant Ravidas Seergovardhan Varanasi
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By 134pradeepk
It is birth place of guru ravidas,in sir gobardhan situated a guru ravidas temple every year during birth anniversary of guru ravidas,million of people come here from different state,
4. Mulagandha Kuti Vihar
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By prpal2009 - Navi Mumbai, India
During our Varanasi trip, we went for a day trip to Sarnath . After visiting Horinji temple , our next stop was the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar . Mulagandha Kuti Vihar monument was built in 1931 with donations from various countries and the international Buddhist community. There are spires on top of the huge building that make it seem like a church. The Vihara is enshrined with the sacred relics of Sakyamuni Buddha. It is open from sunrise to sunset and entry is free. The entire complex is set among beautiful and scenic gardens. ???????????? We Approached the monument via a paved walkway lined with multicolored Buddhist flags, which flap gently in the breeze. ⛩️ Gaze up at the attractive architecture, dominated by towers and intricately carved spires. We also seen the Bodhi tree, which is supposedly a descendant of the tree beneath which Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. It was beautiful to watch the groups of monks that sit and meditate on the surrounding green lawns. At the entrance of the monument there is a huge bronze bell donated by royal family of Japan. There is also a Plum blossom tree inside the garden brought from Japan . After that we steped inside the monument to discover a superb collection of colorful frescoes depicting the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. ????⛩️ These art works were framed by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu. The golden statue of Buddha giving first sermons to 5 disciples is marvellous. Over-all, the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar has become one of Sarnath’s greatest attractions for tourists. ???????????? This is a MUST vist site in your Sarnath itinerary . I strongly recommend this place to visit at Sarnath ! ????????
5. Banaras Ghats
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,836 reviews
One of the oldest cities of India, Banaras acts as an important religious center. The numerous bathing ghats (steps) along the bank of the Ganges attract huge crowds of pilgrims.
Reviewed By Satish1955 - Bengaluru, India
The Ghats in Varanasi are Riverfront steps leading to River Ganges, There are nearly 88 ghats in Varanasi where bathing, pooja ceremonies are held. The most prominent of the ghats and by far the largest and cleanest is Dashashwamedha ghat where Bramha performed Ashwamedha yagna. You need to reach the ghat from the main road near Godaulia crossing by rickshaw. You have to spend time in the ghat to soak in the atmosphere of the milling crowds, saadhus, cows, dogs, touts etc. The best way to see other ghats is to take a sunset boat ride on Ganges from Dashaashwamedha ghat. A single private rowing boat ride followed by viewing Ganga Aarthy from boat will cost you about 1500. Prominent ghats are Manikarnika & Harishchandra ghats where bodies are cremated 24 hours, Assi ghat, Bramha ghat etc . If you are travelling in winter make sure you are carrying adequate warm clothes
6. Sarnath
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,928 reviews
The Dhamekha stupa and other imposing structures adorn this holy site where Buddha first preached his message.
Reviewed By meriyatra - Mumbai, India
Very beautifully maintained and excellent facilities provided by the ASI and the Govt of India. Very impressed! The information provided is good. The place is neat and clean. A nominal fee is taken as entry charges. The museum is excellent. The highlight being the Ashok Chakra. It’s amazing to know that the national emblem is an integration of Buddhist philosophies. Truly unity in Diversity! For those who seek peace this historical place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining Nirvana is THE place to meditate in, the energies here are absolutely amazing! Loved being there and spending quality time in the place where the Teachings were given.
7. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 171 reviews
Reviewed By TravellerMentor - Navi Mumbai, India
A different culture and epic architecture of Temple will sure steal your heart.I went with my family over here.peace Environment, Beautiful monument and colorful temple were incredible.
8. Man Mandir Ghat
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 89 reviews
Reviewed By 33902015 - Kolkata (Calcutta), India
this must see in varanasi, musume open 7a.m and close 8p.m ticket rs 25/. by using 3D technologythe musume will present 3D view of the famouse ghat of kashi, clasical music and heritage, must see light and sound show of river ganga story.
9. Kedar Ghat
10. Thai Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 79 reviews
Reviewed By prpal2009 - Navi Mumbai, India
During our Varanasi trip, we went for a day trip to Sarnath . After visiting the Dhamek Stupa, our next stop was the Wat Thai Temple or popularly known as Thai Temple . This popularly known Thai Temple, the Hinayana Buddha temple was built by Thai dignitaries in 1933. It also has Thai designs and is prettily located amid lush green gardens. ???????? We entered through a beautiful gate of the temple complex and seen the the 80-foot tall image of Buddha in a standing position from a long distance . Adorned with manicured gardens, the temple is reckoned to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sarnath. There is a statue of a laughing Buddha just before the main Thai temple and on the right side is an enactment of Buddha delivering a sermon to his disciples. There are three other statues of Buddha in various mudras beneath a tree and colourful flowers grow around it. The Thais call it the Wat Thai Temple. There are many devotees and Buddhist monks in orange robes moving around the temple compound and paying their regards. The huge standing Buddha statue is on the left side of the temple and the construction of which is said to have taken more than a decade. There are running fountains with blooming lotus flowers before approaching the statue. A variety of flowers of various colours grow in the compound. Calm prevails in the Thai Temple which makes it feel like a very divine experience. There and no charges for entry and timings are from sunrise to sunset. There are also many shops near the entry gate of this Thai temple where you can buy souvenir related to Buddha . This is a MUST vist site in your Sarnath itinerary . I strongly recommend this place to visit at Sarnath ! ????????
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